Category: NEWS

Bill Abernathy’s “Call Their Name” is an Empathetic Call to Action(Single Review)

When writing grounded, honest songs, Bill Abernathy sits comfortably as one of the best. The country artist has been at the forefront of the genre for a good while, his sincerity and songwriting coming through strong in his music. His latest single, “Call Their Name,” promises to be more of his best, so let’s take a closer look at it in our full review.

In the gentle strumming of acoustic strings and the warm timbre of Bill Abernathy’s voice, “Call Their Name” unfolds as a poignant and heartfelt exploration of human suffering. This new single, nestled within the realm of Americana, serves as a musical solace, inviting listeners to reflect on the plight of those facing adversity with a compassionate ear.

 From the opening chords, “Call Their Name” establishes a simple melody that instantly captures the essence of Abernathy’s signature sound. The predominantly acoustic arrangement sets a contemplative tone, creating a space where the lyrics take center stage. The simplicity of the instrumentation, adorned with delicate touches of harmonica and subtle percussion, allows the raw emotion of the song to resonate with the listener.

Bill Abernathy’s “Call Their Name” is an Empathetic Call to Action(Single Review)

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Abernathy’s storytelling prowess shines through in “Call Their Name.” The lyrics serve as a poignant call to action, urging listeners to recognize and empathize with the suffering of others. The song addresses the collective responsibility to acknowledge the struggles faced by individuals across the globe, reminding us that compassion can be a catalyst for positive change.

The beauty of Abernathy’s approach lies in its sincerity. His vocal delivery is both comforting and earnest, evoking a sense of camaraderie with the listener. The authenticity of his voice enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating a connection that transcends the boundaries of the song itself.

As Abernathy sings of pain, resilience, and the human spirit, he does so with a genuine empathy that is both compelling and relatable.

“Call Their Name” unfolds like a musical meditation on empathy. The repeated refrain of “call their name,” becomes a mantra that resonates with the listener. The restrained yet emotive instrumentals provide moments of reflection, allowing the listener to absorb the weight of the song’s message.

The song’s unhurried pace contributes to its contemplative atmosphere, creating a sonic space for introspection. Production is kept sparse outside of its booming sound, fitting the tone
of the song.

As “Call Their Name” reaches its conclusion, it leaves a lingering resonance—a call to action, an invitation to compassion. Abernathy’s ability to marry lyrical depth with musical simplicity results in a song that is both accessible and profound.

In a world filled with noise, “Call Their Name” stands as a reminder of the power of music to amplify voices that often go unheard. If you’re a fan of Americana, this is one you don’t wanna miss!

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Michael W. Smith Performs “Silent Night” On ‘Fox & Friends’

Iconic multi-platinum, singer and songwriter Michael W. Smith appeared on ‘Fox & Friends recently. He performed “Silent Night” on the All-American Christmas Concert Series. The song is featured on Smith’s new Christmas full-length album Every Christmas.

Every Christmas includes 6 songs from his 2022 EP “Christmas At Home” woven together with 6 new songs that wrap this nostalgic, family-focused project into a beautiful completion.

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Newsboys Unveil ‘Worldwide Revival Nights’ Tour 2024

The beloved Christian music group, Newsboys, is gearing up for an exciting 2024 tour. The band recently unveiled plans for the ‘Worldwide Revival Nights’ Tour. The tour is set to kick off in Versailles, OH on January 20th and run through at least April 28th with a stop in Fairfax, VA.

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Natalie Grant Announces Spring 2024 Tour With Bernie Herms

Nine-time GRAMMY nominated artist Natalie Grant has announced a special 8-city tour planned for the spring of 2024. ‘An Evening with Natalie Grant featuring Bernie Herms’ kicks off in Fort Lauderdale on February 22, as the artist will once again be joined by her husband, Bernie Herms, as they bring their living room to audiences across the US, featuring a special evening of stories and songs. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nataliegrant.com/tour.

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Zach Williams Performs With Lainey Wilson On ‘CMA Country Christmas’ Airing December 14

’Tis the holiday season! The Country Music Association is gearing up for its 14th annual holiday television special, “CMA Country Christmas.” Hosted by Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood, “CMA Country Christmas” features performances by Jordan Davis, Grant, Lady A, Ashley McBryde, Jon Pardi, Lindsey Stirling, The War And Treaty, Zach Williams with Lainey Wilson and Yearwood.

Photo courtsey of Disney/Larry McCormack
Photo courtsey of Disney/Larry McCormack

Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the holiday special showcases one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from Country Music’s biggest stars. “CMA Country Christmas” airs Thursday, Dec. 14 (8:00-9:02 PM/EST) on ABC and next day on Hulu and Disney+. Catch a sneak peek of this year’s “CMA Country Christmas”.

Photo courtsey of Disney/Larry McCormack
Photo courtsey of Disney/Larry McCormack

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Announcing Pivot Music – A New Nashville Label Serving Filmmakers Launched By Barry Landis

Entertainment executive Barry Landis has announced Pivot Music, a new label of artists, producers, and composers focused on offering production, scoring/composing, and licensing services to filmmakers and music supervisors. A 20-year veteran with Warner Music Group in Nashville (Warner Alliance, Atlantic Christian Records, and Curb/Word Label Group), Landis has merged his expertise in music with his experience marketing and distributing movies to create a full suite of music solutions for directors and music supervisors.

Barry Landis

Landis has appointed Ben Jones as General Manager of Pivot Music’s operations. Jones comes to the label after graduating from Belmont University’s Curb College of Music Business and Entertainment and a robust schedule as both a touring and studio musician and producer. “I’m excited for this new approach to the music industry,” says Jones. “The models for business are constantly changing and being at the frontlines of these shifts is crucial.”

Landis’s thoughtful approach to blending the music business and filmmaking business stands to benefit both industries. “Our goal is to create opportunities between filmmakers and our roster of artists and producers,” says Landis. “That includes everything from providing music supervisor services to crafting custom musical cues that meet individual needs. Another benefit is the added punch of our artists having their own platforms. When it comes time to promote the movie or television series, Pivot artists want to be involved in the campaign’s release strategy using their social platforms and/or PR if the storyteller desires.”

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Gloria Gaynor Documentary Coming To Theaters February 13

In celebration of what has come to be known as “Galentine’s Day,” Fathom Events proudly presents Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive,” a story about the extraordinary life of two-time Grammy-winning artist and global legend Gloria Gaynor. In theaters nationwide for a one-night special event this Galentine’s Day, February 13, the film explores the challenges and triumphs that shaped Gaynor’s illustrious career. The film is also perfectly timed to celebrate Gaynor’s contributions to music in honor of Black History Month.

Gloria Gaynor, music icon and disco legend, inspired millions for decades with her words “I will survive.” But she only truly understood the profound meaning of her lyrics when she hit rock bottom at the age of 65. Facing a devastating divorce to her husband and manager of 25 years, financial ruin, and spiraling health concerns, Gaynor sought to not only survive, but thrive.

With unwavering faith and the spark of new dreams, the film follows Gaynor as she embarks on an unexpectedly difficult 8-year journey to write and record a gospel album, rising up after downfall. Going behind the mic, we discover a tale of the remarkable challenges that fueled Gaynor’s music and path to stardom, and her present-day message empowering audiences to believe it’s never too late to transform dreams into reality. “Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive” celebrates reinvention, the power of faith, and a magnificent second act.

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“I am finally at a place of joy and self-fulfillment, and I am ready to share my secret to not only ‘surviving but thriving’ with the world,” said Gloria Gaynor.

Beyond her iconic anthem, “I Will Survive,” Gaynor had always envisioned recording and releasing a gospel album. After 19 studio albums, her first gospel album, “Testimony,” was released in 2019. It won the Grammy Award for Best Roots Gospel Album in early 2020 at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards. Not one to rest on her laurels, Gloria is currently working on co-writes with several Grammy-winning songwriters in Nashville who have penned hit songs for Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Meghan Trainor, Dolly Parton, Maroon 5, and more. The new music will be released later in 2024.

Fathom Events, known for bringing exclusive and unique cinematic experiences to audiences nationwide, will host the theatrical release of “Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive” on February 13, 2024. This one-night special event allows one to witness the untold story of a musical icon on the big screen.

“Gloria Gaynor is a music legend, but very few know her true story, which deserves to be told,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. “In partnering with Gloria, we’ll be able to bring that story to theaters this February, letting fans see the story behind the woman whose personal journey fueled her powerful voice and legacy.”

Join us on February 13th as we celebrate the life, resilience, and enduring legacy of Gloria Gaynor in this extraordinary documentary. Audiences will enjoy never-before-seen Super 8 footage, capturing the beginning of Disco, and join Gloria in the studio with artists like MercyMe’s Bart Millard, Jason Crabb, Mike Farris, and Yolanda Adams. “Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive” is an emotional journey that inspires and uplifts audiences.

“Having filmed Ms. Gaynor for eight years, I saw first-hand how she proves faith and resilience can turn your life around,” said director Betsy Schechter. “Through divorce, a career resurgence, completing a college degree, and battling the odds to make a Grammy Award-winning Gospel album in her 70’s, Gloria’s story today inspires people to know that despite all of life’s challenges, it is never too late to transform your dreams into reality.”

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GOA Music & Speakers Announces New Staff Addition, Promotion To Music Division

GOA Music & Speakers (Greg Oliver Agency, Inc.) continues to strengthen its team with a new staff addition and a promotion in the music division.

Tim Robinson joins GOA Music as an Artist Agent. With expertise in the development of event promotion with a focus on organizing Christian concerts and festivals, Robinson spent the past several years as an independent booking agent and manager. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, traveling, and hiking. He has been happily married to his wife Priscilla for 13 years and is the proud parent of three amazing children.

David Richt has been promoted to Artist Agent from his previous role as Booking Coordinator. After graduating from Belmont University, Richt became the Music Director at Christ Fellowship Church in Miami, Florida. He moved back to Nashville with his wife Joanna in 2021 to join the GOA Music team.

“I could not be more thrilled to be adding Tim to our team as well as elevating David to an Artist Agent,” says Greg Oliver, President & CEO of GOA Music & Speakers. “What a gift it is to work alongside these amazing team members and we look forward to what’s ahead in the new year.”

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CeCe Winans Announces ‘The Goodness Tour’ Coming Spring 2024

After a decade-long hiatus from national tours, the Grammy-award sensation, CeCe Winans, triumphantly concluded the highly acclaimed “Believe for It Tour,” successfully sealing her remarkable return to the national stage.

The last six dates of the tour featured special guests; Jenn Johnson and Todd Dulaney, who both received an overwhelming response from devoted fans, with most of the venues sold out. The results of the “Believe For It Tour” affirmed a fundamental truth – it was more than just a concert for fans; it was a deeply engaging experience.

Adding to the banner year Winans racked up some impressive stats on the Billboard Year-End Charts:  #1 Top Gospel Artist, Female; #1 Gospel Digital Song Sales- Artist and #1 Gospel Digital Song Sales for the single “Goodness of God,” which also received a Billboard Music Award for Top Gospel Song.

Winans continues to be an unwavering beacon of light in the music industry, captivating audiences with her soulful voice while championing both her artistry and ministry.

Winans also recently announced dates for “The Goodness” Tour launching in Spring 2024, bringing good news for fans who missed the opportunity to be in the audience the first time around, or who just can’t wait to see CeCe live again. 

Everyone is invited to experience the transformative worship journey with Winans, showcasing the monumental tracks from her album ‘Belief For It,’ such as the chart-topping hits “Goodness of God,” “Never Lost,” and “Believe For It.” 

Winans will embark upon a new tour while also debuting brand new songs from her forthcoming album, More Than This (PureSpring Gospel/ Fair Trade Services) featuring soon-to-be Winans classics, “Holy Forever”, “That’s My King” and many more.

Pre-sales for The Goodness Tour tickets will be available for purchase starting Wednesday, December 13th at 10:00 am/CT, and General Public sales begin on Friday, December 15th at 10:00 am/CT.  For more information and tour details visit http://CeCewinans.com/events .

Here’s what Winans has to say about getting back on the road, “Over the last year, my team and I have been thanking God for the blessings and opportunities that we’ve been given. 

As we toured and listened to stories of healing and restoration, we started to think about what’s next.  What more is there to say?  During “The Goodness Tour,” we’ll get to share new songs and worship where we don’t just believe in great things, but we acknowledge His goodness while having no ability to perceive how much more God has in store for us. 

We are praying with expectation of what is coming, and we hope you’ll join us.”

Teaming up with Winans once again to spread the good news of the gospel in the song are sponsors Compassion International and concert promoters Transparent Production.

THE GOODNESS TOUR DATES:

  • – 2/28 – Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Municipal Memorial Auditorium
  • – 2/29 – Mobile, AL – Cottage Hill Baptist Church
  • – 3/1 –   New Orleans, LA – Franklin Avenue Baptist Church
  • – 3/6 –   Fayetteville, NC – Crown Theater
  • – 3/7 –   Greensboro, NC – Mt. Zion Church
  • – 3/8 –   Hixson, TN (Chattanooga) – Abba’s House
  • – 3/13 – Greenville, SC – Redemption Church East
  • – 3/14 – Richmond, VA – Liberation Church
  • – 3/20 – Liberty Township, OH (Cincinnati) – Princeton Pike Church of God
  • – 3/21 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theater
  • – 3/22 – Chicago, IL – House of Hope
  • – 4/13 – Los Angeles, CA – Peacock Theater
  • – 4/18 – Visalia, CA – Visalia First Assembly of God
  • – 4/19 – San Jose, CA – Redemption Church West
  • – 4/24 – Carrolton, TX (Dallas) – Bent Tree Bible Fellowship
  • – 4/25 – Austin, TX – Austin Ridge Bible Bee Cave
  • – 4/26 – Houston, TX – Fallbrook Church
  • – 5/2 –   Miami, FL – James L. Knight Center
  • – 5/3 –   Brandon, FL (Tampa) – Bell Shoals Church

GENERATIONS LIVE!  2024 Women’s Conference

  • 5/10 to 5/11:  Nashville, TN – Curb Event Center

As an extension to her acclaimed 2023 calendar, Winans is set to grace the stage on the CBS Christmas Special, “A Home for The Holidays,” airing Friday, December 22, 2023, from 8:00 to 9:00 pm/ET/PT. 

This milestone event celebrates its 25th Anniversary and features a lineup of esteemed guests, including Lauren Daigle, Gavin DeGraw, David Foster & Katherine McPhee, and Pentatonix.  The program remains dedicated to shedding light on the imperative social issue of American children in foster care, inspiring thousands of adoptions.

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Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jonathan Mcreynolds, Erica Campbell, Israel Houghton & Jekalyn Carr Announce ‘One Hallelujah’ Tour

Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jonathan McReynolds, Erica Campbell, Israel Houghton, and Jekalyn Carr announced their 2024 tour ‘One Hallelujah’. Produced by Live Nation, the 25-city tour kicks off on March 6 at MGM Music Hall at Fenway in Boston making stops across the U.S.

in New York, Atlanta, Nashville, New Orleans, Houston, and more before wrapping up in San Francisco at YouTube Theater on April 21.

TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with Artist presales beginning Wednesday, December 13. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on-sale beginning Friday, December 15 at 10 am local time at Ticketmaster.com.

ONE HALLELUJAH TOUR 2024 DATES:

  • Wed Mar 06 — Boston, MA — MGM Music Hall at Fenway
  • Thu Mar 07 — Philadelphia, PA — The Met
  • Fri Mar 08 — Brooklyn, NY — Kings Theatre
  • Sat Mar 09 — Washington, D.C. — The Theater at MGM National Harbor
  • Tue Mar 12 — Charlotte, NC — Ovens Auditorium
  • Wed Mar 13 — Raleigh, NC — Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
  • Fri Mar 15 — Miami, FL — James L. Knight Center
  • Sun Mar 17 — Jacksonville, FL — Moran Theater
  • Thu Mar 21 — Indianapolis, IN — Murat Theatre at Old National Center
  • Fri Mar 22 — St. Louis, MO — Stifel Theatre
  • Sat Mar 23 — Memphis, TN — Orpheum Theatre
  • Sun Mar 24 — Cincinnati, OH — The Andrew J Brady Music Center
  • Thu Mar 28 — Evans, GA — Columbia County Performing Arts Center
  • Fri Mar 29 — Atlanta, GA — Coca-Cola Roxy
  • Sat Mar 30 — Birmingham, AL — BJCC Concert Hall
  • Thu Apr 04 — Chicago, IL — Chicago Auditorium Theatre
  • Fri Apr 05 — Detroit, MI — Fisher Theatre
  • Sat Apr 06 — Columbus, OH — Mershon Auditorium
  • Sun Apr 07 — Nashville, TN — Opry House
  • Tue Apr 09 — New Orleans, LA — Saenger Theatre
  • Wed Apr 10 — Houston, TX — Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
  • Thu Apr 11 — Dallas, TX — The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
  • Fri Apr 19 — Phoenix, AZ — Arizona Financial Theatre
  • Sat Apr 20 — Los Angeles, CA — YouTube Theater
  • Sun Apr 21 — San Francisco, CA — The Masonic

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